Froakie was a firm believer in fate.
The belief stemmed from his experience. He met his destined trainer, forged everlasting bonds, and created fond memories. He knew the joys of victory and the bitterness of defeat. He felt the pain of leaving behind those he called kin. He experienced guilt, understood grief, and bore the heavy burdens of responsibility.
It still hurt.
He was a guardian of Kalos. He knew his role. He understood his duties.
Yet what could he do now, trapped in a mystery that befuddled him? He was lost. The world was different. His purpose was gone, the objective that he chose and sacrificed so much for hadn't happened.
He felt jaded, betrayed, by the world. Had he already given up enough? He left those he would call family to protect a future within his grasp yet he was given a fate worse than death.
Isolated.
Alone.
In a world where no one could understand him, he lost hope. Years of solitude tested his will. What should he do? Should he seek out a new future? It would never be the same. The memories of the past were too ingrained in him.
We'll always be connected even if we're not in the same place.
Froakie sat on the streets of Lumiose City, watching the comings and goings of the people. The citizens moved around him, giving the frog a wide berth. Some tried to feed him, some tried to take care of him. He denied them. He was too lost in his own thoughts.
The world was so different yet so familiar. Just what was his place in it?
Fate had a funny way of answering him.
The truth is, we won't ever really be apart.
Froakie blinked when his eyes met amber and for one moment, hope blossomed.
He believed in fate. It was a belief that was forged through everything he had been through. He never doubted it. He'd never forget it. When he was met with such a familiar face, there was only one thing he could do.
He grabbed on to the last vestige of his past.
I'll come back for you.
He smiled when the trainer stood still as both recognized the other. If fate was what allowed him to meet Ash once, it was that same fate that allowed them to meet again. What was once lost was now found.
You came when no one else could.
He kept his promise.
XXX
Their first meeting was like a movie. An iconic boy meets girl moment.
They shared a goal, though the paths they took were different. She was a star, an actress that pursued two dreams. He was a warrior, a wanderer that pursued a single dream wholeheartedly. They were very different yet both wanted the same thing, to be the best.
She could remember it well. She hid among the crowd, enrobed in a black coat, hat, and sunglasses to hide her face. She was a sixteen-year-old girl, a recent star. Though fresh in the business, Diantha pursued her desires tirelessly. Her effort paid off and Kalos began knowing her name. Her manager, Kathi Lee, ever so wise in her wisdom had already given her a disguise to at least give her the privacy any teenage girl should have.
She walked through the busy streets of Lumiose City, intent to enjoy a nice break from her busy work schedule. She already knew her destination, the familiar scent of warm drinks wafting through the air alerted her that she was close. Cafe Soleil had always been a favorite of hers.
When she turned the corner to reach it, that was when she saw him.
A boy her age with a Pikachu on his shoulders stood nearby, staring long and hard at a Froakie. It was an odd thing to witness. The electric rodent on his shoulders looked just as astonished and the trainer's eyes were wide and unblinking. As an actress, she was used to acting out roles and emotions and she sometimes would indulge in watching the expressions of others.
It made her quite good at reading people. She could track dishonesty and lies a mile away. The reactions these three displayed were frighteningly real. She couldn't help but stare.
She felt like she was ruining a moment, but she didn't have the heart to stop. Even others that walked past them gave the trainer and the two Pokemon funny looks. The three stood frozen in time, not a single one of them moving a muscle.
It was getting unnerving.
Then the Froakie stole a pokeball from the trainer and with a swift press of the button, it was captured.
Like a movie resuming in a theater, the black-haired boy sucked in his breath and picked up the device. His expression displayed absolute confusion and a lingering shock and when those amber eyes met hers, the two paused in an awkward realization of their predicament.
She intruded into what was obviously a very personal moment. In his eyes, she probably looked like a creep, a complete weirdo. The continuous silence between them was only emphasizing her mistake. The Pikachu on his shoulders looked to be trying to find a way to break the tension but hadn't fully recovered from whatever just happened.
Time to diffuse this atmosphere.
She cleared her throat, raising her purse as she gave a small smile. With nothing really worth saying and her desire to eat, she said the first thing on her mind. "W-Would you like a drink?"
Wow, Diantha, great job!
Though that did seem to do the trick as the boy finally got out of whatever funk he was in and laughed, "Yeah. I could definitely use a drink right about now."
"I know just the place," Diantha inwardly sighed in relief. That somehow worked.
"Lead the way." The boy walked towards her. "I'm Red Satoshi."
"Diantha Carnet." She watched him closely, to see if he recognized her name. From the small widening of the eyes, he did, but the trainer didn't seem to care at all. That was good at least. They walked towards Cafe Soleil together and she noted his ease in traversing through Lumiose City. A native? Seasoned adventurer? She couldn't really tell.
When they reached the cafe and sat down on their wooden seats, she continued her observations. Pikachu was content to perch himself on the table as they gave their orders. Red spoke instinctively, answering without looking at their menu. She did so as well. A frequent customer? Odd. She was a common enough visitor that she had seen the regulars often. She'd never seen him here before.
A man of mystery!
That was a good way to begin a conversation. It would be best to get to know this stranger that had a very odd episode in the streets and she needed to break this awkwardness. The silence was telling. A lot of things must be on his mind.
"Is this your first time in Lumiose?"
Red blinked before smiling at her. "Not exactly."
Well, that answered that. "I've never seen you around."
"It has been a while," Red answered. He perked up when their drinks came. She took hers. Pikachu was quick to pester him for a sip, which he good-naturedly obliged. She grinned at that. They were clearly close.
"Must have been a long time," Diantha watched in amusement as Pikachu began drinking the entire thing. Red watched with feigned exasperation. "I certainly would have remembered this cutie." She made to pet the mouse, enjoying his soft fur and cute noises.
"Don't give him a bigger ego than he already has," Red chuckled. She inwardly sighed in relief when she noticed him starting to relax. Pikachu gave his trainer a playful smack of his tail. They laughed.
"Well, if this isn't your first time in Lumiose, may I ask why you're here?"
"I was planning on challenging the Kalos League."
Ah. She could understand that. Diantha nodded to herself. "I am also participating." She didn't really know how far she'd go. Her job as an actress was already busy enough, especially with her already rising stardom. Kathi Lee was determined to ride the momentum and she willingly followed, trusting her manager's advice. Unfortunately, this lead her to be rather slow in collecting the required badges.
"I hope to meet you there then," Red grinned. Oh? He just started and was already assured of his entrance to the league? Was that experience or arrogance?
"Confident," Diantha's lips hummed inquisitively.
"I trust in my Pokemon."
"A lot of trainers do."
"All the better," Red responded quickly, "What's the point of being at the top if there is no challenge?"
"I correct my statement," Diantha replied mirthfully, "You're very confident."
"Don't believe me?"
"Seeing is believing."
"Fair," Red nodded, "I'll have to prove it then."
"I do prefer a man of action," she agreed. She had met many in the industry with silver tongues, but while she lived in a realm of poets and scholars, she too enjoyed the warriors and rogues. "Nonetheless, I look forward to facing you in the league." She smirked playfully. "If you can reach me, that is."
Red laughed. Even she couldn't help but crack a smile at the light atmosphere. "Now who's the one that's confident?"
"I would like to consider myself decent, at the very least." She won the previous Lumiose Conference, after all, and defeated one of her region's Elite Four. She would like to think that she was adequate. They talked a bit more, surprisingly enjoying the conversation between them. He was but a mere stranger a moment ago and now she was speaking so casually to him. Kathi Lee would be scandalized.
Perhaps it helped that he only seemed to think of the league instead of poking into her personal life. Perhaps it was because the boy never seemed to do anything with her identity despite recognizing who she was. Maybe it was the weird air of mystery around Red that made her want to learn bits of him. She always enjoyed a mystery book or two.
Whatever might be the case, it loosened her up and when they left the cafe, she was surprised by his words before they departed.
"See you later, Diantha."
See you later. Even after all of that, the boy truly believed he'd face her at the Lumiose Conference.
She had to contain her smile as she nodded back. "I'll see you later then, Red."
It was an odd meeting, but she supposed it fit for her newest rival.
XXX
Their second meeting was like a flash of lightning. Literally!
Apparently 'see you later' came closer than expected. Like a storm, it was unpredictable, electric, and very destructive. Standing within one of the alleys of Santalune City, she wore a white dress, torn and covered with dirt and grime. She struggled to walk, her breathing deep and labored. She glared at the two in front of her.
"You're making this harder than it has to be, miss," the first of these black-robed goons spoke. She shivered at the slithery voice. "We'll take you somewhere nice and quiet."
"It's futile to struggle," the second one intoned with indifference. "Our boss just wants to talk." They both grabbed onto her and she tried her best to force the two grunts off her.
She groaned, "How dare you!" She sent a withering glare. "You'll never get away with this."
"We already are, miss." She growled at the smug tone. She felt the two pin her down and begin binding her limbs. Her breathing slowed, eyes drooping as exhaustion took her. "Grab her quickl-"
"Pikachu, Thunderbolt!"
Her eyes shot up when the world turned gold. The goons were sent flying, crashing into the alley walls. One of them stood up, shaking his head, and looked at where the attack came from. "What the h-"
Whatever he said was stopped by a flash of a metallic tail. The man was knocked out cold. She only had a second to comprehend everything that went down. It was so effective yet so strong.
"Froakie, frubbles."
Frothy white bubbles flew accurately as the two grunts were trapped in the sticky substance, completely immobile. She turned to the source and saw the same boy she met a week ago. His amber eyes seemed to glow like unnatural gold, hardened into an expression of tempered wrath. Diantha already felt the bonds around her break from Pikachu's Iron Tail and she slowly stood up.
"Diantha," Red's expression softened towards her.
"Red."
"Are you alright?" He scanned her body, checking for any injuries. She held a poker face and looked at him.
"Red."
"Who are those guys?" Red didn't seem to hear her words as he scanned the fallen criminals. "Must be some kind of team I've never heard of. They don't even have uniforms I'm familiar with."
"Red."
"They weren't that impressive," Red muttered, "How'd they get you anyways?"
"Red."
For once, he paused and looked at her. "Yeah?"
She closed her eyes and waited for the inevitable.
"Cut! Cut!" Kathi Lee yelled, a rolled-up magazine in her hands. "Who the hell are you and why did you attack our actors?" She saw her manager smack the boy with the hardest swing of the magazine she had seen her friend ever do. The boy yelped and Diantha sighed in amusement.
"Wait," Red looked utterly lost, "actors?!"
"Actors," Diantha nodded, a serene smile on her face.
Pikachu and Froakie looked at each other before scratching the back of their heads. Red groaned. She didn't know if it was from the pain her manager inflicted upon him or at the thought that he just barged into a movie set completely on accident while simultaneously wounding her coworkers and damaging property. She figured it was both.
"Repent for your sins, damn you!"
"It was an acci-ack!"
Smack!
Smack!
SMACK!
Red yelped as he was bombarded once more by her manager. Pikachu and Froakie watched the scene in fascinated horror. Their glorious and normally confident trainer was being berated by her small female friend. He gave Diantha a pleading look. Her shoulders shook as she began laughing at his predicament.
It hasn't even been a few months and you've already made my year, Red!
The director showed up and looked at the entire scene.
"Ah, director, I am so sorry for this rapscallion! Let me get rid of him immediately!" Kathi Lee was quick to apologize, bowing sincerely. She had never seen her manager and friend so stressed and it only made her laugh harder. When Diantha saw her force the taller Red to bow with her, she was laughing to the point of tears.
"This..."
"I promise I'll make sure he pays for all the damages."
"...is amazing!"
"And I prom-what?"
When the director began praising and inspecting Red, she never laughed harder.
XXX
With her hair wet from a shower and proper clothes on, she entered the suite she resided in. A wide grin was on her face as she saw Red sitting down on one of the leather couches nursing his injuries. Froakie and Pikachu looked equally guilty. "That was quite the entrance, Red."
"Don't remind me," he grimaced.
"I thought it was funny."
"Of course you did," Red rolled his eyes, moving a bit to allow her to sit next to him. "I'll give you props. It was very convincing. I genuinely thought you were being harassed. You're a great actress."
She smiled, "Thank you. It was because of the support of everyone that I was able to push for this dream."
"You've certainly got the talent," Red winced as he gingerly touched his head. "Your manager packs a mean punch for someone so small."
"Kathi means well," Diantha giggled, "She only wants what's best for me."
"I can respect that," he conceded. He patted Pikachu's head as Froakie relaxed beside him. He frowned, "How're the ones I injured?"
"They'll make a full recovery," Diantha touched his shoulder reassuringly. It spoke a lot of his character to be so worried about those he'd hurt. "Unfortunately, they won't be able to work with us for some time."
Red sighed, content to languidly rest. Diantha took the time to recall the boy's actions during his impromptu rescue. The trainer was quick on his feet, adaptable, and professional in the way he'd handled those 'grunts.' Now that she thought about it, those moves were really impressive. His commands were filled with authority and every motion was acted with purpose and precision.
"You know," Diantha spoke up, watching him look at her curiously. "It was quite brave of you to put yourselves in harm's way to save me, even if all of it was fake."
"I couldn't not do anything," Red spoke, "Better to make a fool out of myself than to stand back if someone needs help."
Diantha was astonished at the honesty in his voice. Normally, she wouldn't believe a man when they proclaimed such things. She'd seen so many people try to impress her this way. She got used to all of the flattering words and scathing insults. Words were just that, words. Anyone could say them, but not everyone could act on them. Red was a unique case. She could believe him. He did what he said he would do, no matter how foolish it might have looked to the outside.
How surprising.
Chivalry isn't dead, after all.
"Well, even if what you did wasn't exactly what you thought it would be," Diantha smiled gratefully, "I appreciate the thought."
Red returned it with a rueful smile of his own, "Nice to be appreciated at least."
"Even if it was surprising that you somehow didn't spot the cameras and lights."
"I was too preoccupied trying to save you to notice."
Diantha laughed, oddly pleased. They settled in comfortable silence, occasionally breaking it with some small talk as they waited for the director and her manager to return.
XXX
"Hm, yes." The director, a simple man of black hair and brown eyes with a suit, inspected Red with the gaze of an artist. The sixteen-year-old stood awkwardly in the suite. His Pokemon were on the side, watching it all with puzzlement. "Yes, this will do. He's perfect!"
Diantha raised an eyebrow while Kathi Lee looked at the man with something akin to disbelief. "Sir, I am not exactly sure what you're implying."
"Can't you see, Ms. Lee!" He waved at the utterly confused Red, "I have found a solution to the little predicament that has been plaguing us for so long. This is fabulous! It's like Arceus himself came down and blessed me with this gift!"
"And what is that, sir?"
"We are missing a male lead!"
Kathi Lee sputtered, "Didn't this movie have no male lead in the first place?"
"Because I couldn't find one that would fit," the director waved it off, "However, look at him!"
Diantha stared at the trainer. Coal-black hair, lightly tanned skin, amber eyes, and a runner's physique. He looked like any older trainer. Kathi seemed to have the same opinion on the matter as she shook her head. "I don't see it."
"He screams protagonist to me!" The director was adamant about this, waving his hands while picking up the Pikachu nearby and plopping it on the teen's shoulders. "He has a cute Pokemon partner that is outside of his pokeball, he was willing to jump into harm's way to save a person in need, and he has a never-give-up attitude that the people just love! He's a perfect protagonist for the movie!"
"Wait," Red blinked before pointing at himself. "Me?"
"Why yes, young man! Isn't this most fortunate? You're perfect for the role in our movie, Princess and the Froakie! You even have one right here!" The director motioned at the befuddled frog.
Kathi was about to protest before Diantha chipped in, "I don't mind." At her manager and Red's stunned expression, she continued, "If the director believes this is what's best for the movie then it is the job of the actors to help make his dream a reality, am I correct?"
The director gave a positive thumbs-up though Kathi remained doubtful, "He looks like he has no experience whatsoever."
"Diantha and I will take care of it," the director smiled reassuringly, "Besides, with the way he acted when he saved our star actress, I have no doubt in my eyes that he'll do just fine."
"I'll be too busy collecting eight gym badges," Red pointed out.
"Diantha is capable of juggling both! Do not worry, young man. We're traveling all over Kalos so you'll have plenty of time to train and get your badges."
"I'm not exactly sure about this," Red argued, clearly not as enthused at her director's ardent encouragement.
"It's only three months, young man." Her director wasn't taking no for an answer. He could be determined when he wanted to be. "You can be on your way once we're done. We'll handle the rest and you'll have plenty of time to explore Kalos as you see fit."
"It's not that bad, Red," Diantha chirped, "Traveling with a group is better than alone, no?"
"This is one of the weirdest ways I've ever been coerced into having traveling companions."
She couldn't really argue with that. One moment, he was a trainer traveling around Kalos, the next he was being convinced on a three-month contract for a movie. Talk about a sudden shift in careers! Diantha inwardly laughed. She couldn't really talk though. She was doing both too. Still, "It's never bad to try new things."
"I guess so," Red sighed. He gave it some thought. "It's just three months, right?"
The director nodded, "You have my word!"
"I understand," Red conceded, expression serious. She was surprised at his professionalism. "As long as I get to travel Kalos, it's something to do."
"Wonderful!"
Diantha softly giggled as she watched Red cope with the situation handed to him. He gave her a feigned glare in which she winked back playfully. He rolled his eyes and turned to continue speaking with her director. Pikachu and Froakie looked at each other and simply sighed at their predicament. It was interesting to see such Pokemon have quite the chemistry. Wasn't the frog caught recently? How odd!
Still...
She could tell that the next few months were going to be interesting!
XXX
Malva was someone that liked to jump into trends. She had a firm belief that knowing everything and everyone was important to reaching the top. After all, it wasn't about what you know, it was about who you know that really mattered. Information was just half the battle!
That was what made her study to be a news reporter and grow to be a fierce battler. Anyone she battled that was important enough to be notable, she was always one step ahead. She studied the most powerful trainers of her age. She analyzed them, created strategies in her mind, and forged counters for them if she ever met them in combat. Even opponents outside of Kalos were not out of her sight.
The directionally challenged Leon and his iconic Charizard were like a blazing spirit. He was a fire that was uncontrollable and bright, creating a beacon within Galar that made him the star of the show. In Pokemon TV, whenever he was on, he was given all of the attention. He was marketed heavily and it was easy to know why. He drew people to him like a light to a Venomoth.
Lance was Kanto and Johto's star. Fierce in power, mighty in presence. She could see his appeal. The great billowing cape he wore gave him an awe-inspiring aura. When he stepped into the ring, the arena roared as fiercely as his dragons. While Leon was a beacon that drew in the people, Lance was like a flag, drawing his region to arms. They supported him with all of their hearts.
Steven and Wallace were a duality that shocked all who saw them. Within Pokemon TV, many would always compare the two to one another. While Steven was the heavy-handed gauntlet, Wallace was the soft, smooth glove. Such an appeal made all the girls wild and there were many days she would hear of the women's fantasies that were linked to them. Their appeal was astronomical in Hoenn.
Unova's hearty and fatherly Alder also filled in a niche that was rarely appreciated. When he came walking, people of all ages straightened. Supportive and beloved by many, he guided the future generation like a fierce caretaker. Unova's finest trainers all looked up to him and for good reason. He radiated wisdom in spades!
However, while those regions had such icons, Sinnoh had an interesting dynamic duo of their own, one that was beloved fiercely in their home region. The pride and joys of Sinnoh made them hold constant attention in the world.
While the rest held their regions firmly, these two wayward travelers sought to fight the world and Sinnoh loved them for it.
She saw the appeal. Which one was better? If Lance and Wallace fought, who would become the victor? If Leon and Steven battled, who would come out on top? These rising stars were too busy with their own journeys to test themselves in other lands.
But not these two. They sought them out. Cynthia and Red were Sinnoh's traveling royalty. The Princess of Sinnoh battled and crushed all that challenged her. No one was safe when she set her eyes on them. Ferocious and tactical, her skill had been tested countless times and always came out the victor of the exchange. Sinnoh treasured those traits and that was why whenever she appeared, views on Pokemon TV would skyrocket. Her popularity soared as she grew.
Then there was the Prince of Celestic, the infamous Red Satoshi. His appeal was more subtle. Mysterious and unorthodox, when Red stepped in front of the camera, no one ever knew what he would bring to the table. It was hard to describe, even for Malva yet she found a comparison that would fit.
If Cynthia was the sun, then Red was the moon.
He was bright, but his presence was more subdued. His strength was murky, hidden within anonymity yet he also commanded a sense of fear, just like the night she linked him to. He captured new Pokemon, used new tactics, and every time Malva thought she got his number, he would switch things around in the next region.
She kind of liked it. He was never dull. He had a signature Pokemon, Pikachu, but his team changed just like the phases of the moon. It was attractive in a chaotic sense. His appeal in Pokemon TV was unique and his fame had attracted not just those in Sinnoh, but in other lands as well. He was an example to the world, and it made others follow him.
Lance, Bruno, Clair, Flint, Volkner, and many others wanting to journey through other regions could be attributed to him.
Needless to say, Malva's analysis of the world's notable trainers made her quite good in combat.
So imagine her surprise when she stepped into Cyllage City to obtain the Cliff Badge that she would bump into a boy her age that looked exactly like Red Satoshi.
"Oh, I'm sorry," Red nodded to her.
"No, it's my fault," Malva responded slowly, her glasses tilting slightly as she stared at the trainer in front of her. "I was lost in thought."
Red blinked and gave a reassuring smile. "Nonetheless, I should have been aware of my surroundings."
She nodded subtly but focused her eyes on him and his Pokemon. That was the same Pikachu that caused so much debate within the battling networks and forums. She would always laugh at all the theories the commentators came up with about this small rodent. She cleared her throat and offered her hand. "I am Malva Pachira."
"Red Satoshi."
Good, she wasn't imagining it.
"As in the Prince of Celestic," Malva mused out loud, a grin blossoming on her face.
"I thought I was safe from that in Kalos," Red sighed.
"I'm sure the knowledge is not as common," Malva reassured him. "Your home region is far enough that your influence hasn't grown here yet."
"Yet," Red mimicked with something akin to dread. "That would explain Unova though."
"I'm studying to be a news reporter," she continued, "so naturally, I am inclined to know these things."
"That explains it," Red grinned. "I hope you don't tell people about it though. I would prefer it if not many people know."
"Not after the fame?"
"More like what comes with it." Red crossed his arms in exasperation. "I like my journeys without the constant attention."
"I can see that," Malva nodded to herself. From what she saw of the boy, he was a man of simple tastes. He was different from her in that sense. He was more akin to the likes of Alder, a traveler that seeks out challenges, than those like Diantha and Wallace, artists that inspire the world. "I promise I won't tell a soul then."
"Thank you."
Malva gave out a devious expression and the trainer tensed. "On one condition."
"Of course," Red rolled his eyes.
"You promise me an interview later."
"That's an odd thing to ask for." Red quirked a brow. Is that so? The boy must either be living under a rock or was quite talented in avoiding attention. Possibly the latter. She heard he had quite an arsenal of skills.
"Not for me," Malva smiled slyly, "No one has really gotten a peep out of you, y'know? So many reporters tried to dig some information about your background and other than some simple stuff like your hometown, they came up with nothing. People love the mystery. I can't miss the opportunity to be the first to interview you."
"I'm a completely normal person," Red smiled. "Not sure why anyone would like to get to know me."
Oh trust me, Red, there are a lot of people that would love to get to know you.
Malva had to laugh at his obliviousness when it came to his fame. He was becoming a growing icon due to the fast growth in his power and record. Prince of Celestic was just but one of many titles he'd earned. "Just humor me then, Red."
"I don't mind," Red answered after some thought. "Just know that I have the right to ignore any questions that I am uncomfortable with."
"That's even better," Malva teased, "That will only enhance your image."
"I'm not trying to make any image, Malva."
"Mind if I quote that?"
Red released a breath in amusement and offered his hand once more. She widened her eyes. "You've been honest with me so far."
Malva took his hands and almost jumped in cheer. This may be her first big break! "Thank you so much for this, Red."
"I'll be in your care the-"
"Malva?" A new voice piped up and she turned to see Diantha walking toward them with surprise.
"Diantha?" She tilted her glasses as she looked at her old rival. They met each other occasionally during their journeys around Kalos though it had gotten rarer these days as they began pursuing other careers. "What're you doing here?"
"Challenging a gym and working on my next movie," Diantha answered easily enough before turning to the Sinnoh native. "Red, the director is asking for you."
He nodded and Malva had to grab his shoulders to force him to stop as she swiftly asked, "Why does your director need Red?"
"He's the male lead."
What?
Something sparked in Malva's eyes and Red had to shiver when she looked at him. "You're going to tell me everything."
Red decided that today was not one of his best days.
XXX
A few weeks passed and Diantha was able to learn more about her newest coworker.
The first was that he wasn't the best actor. She didn't fault him for it. In fact, she found it endearing that he even tried at all. He wasn't the absolute worst that she ever worked with, but the boy was clearly not as experienced. He would have trouble in touching moments. He wasn't good at displaying several emotions without some prodding, but when it came to action, he was probably one of the best.
The way he would swiftly dispatch groups or the way he would bring himself to protect her, even if the entire thing was staged was quite spectacular to watch. He felt experienced in this. He felt like a hero, a guardian, and even though she knew that it was simply the script, when he protected her and looked at her with those eyes that promised that no harm would ever touch her, she wouldn't deny feeling warm.
The second thing she learned was that the boy was actually quite good at training his Pokemon. He displayed an amazing grasp of tactics and strategy when he battled the Santalune and Cyllage gyms. His Fletchling, Froakie, Pikachu, and Hawlucha were all impressive in their own rights. She had to applaud his skills. Raising freshly caught Pokemon was always a challenge yet he made it look easy.
If he was trying to prove to her his capabilities as a trainer, he was doing an excellent job.
The last thing she learned was that the boy had a bottomless stomach.
They met her rival, Siebold, during their trip to Shalour City, no doubt to get the Rumble Badge, same as them. He was a trainer that aspired to be the finest chef in the world. A very odd career for a trainer, but she wouldn't decry it when she wanted to be an actress. Greeting the two of them politely, he offered to cook lunch for them as they discussed ways to face the next gym. Gurkinn was probably one of the most difficult gym leaders to face with his Mega Lucario.
The blonde boy gave her a disbelieving stare when Red and his Pokemon were chowing down on Siebold's meal. She knew his food was delicious, but this was ridiculous. They sat in the dining room inside one of the suites rented out for her use by Kathi.
When Red cleaned his plate down to the last drop, he cleared his throat and gave a grateful nod to her culinary rival. "Thank you for the meal." His Pokemon all sent their thanks as well.
"You're welcome," Siebold spoke slowly. Diantha knew that the water-type specialist was curious about her rival. She wouldn't stop him from prodding. She might learn something new from her latest coworker. "So I heard from Diantha that you're Red."
"Yes."
"I've never heard of a boy named after a color."
"You get used to it."
Siebold nodded. "Would you like seconds?"
Red coughed and scratched his head in embarrassment. Diantha thought it looked adorable. "I wouldn't mean to trouble you."
"I always enjoy watching people eat my cooking," Siebold smirked, "Though I will admit this was the first time I had to witness it all gone in such a fashion. At least you finish your plate."
"Thank you."
"Tell me more about yourself," Siebold spoke as he prepared another helping. "I heard you're not from here."
"That's right," Red took a slower approach to his next meal. Diantha watched it with amusement as she ate her own lunch. "I wanted to try out the league here in Kalos."
"I hope to face you there then," Siebold nodded as he finally dug into his own food. "The Kalos League can be quite difficult. Mega Evolution has been a part of our culture for generations and for those not used to it, it can be quite a troublesome obstacle."
Red smiled, "That is true. I heard that the gym leader, Gurkinn, has a Mega Lucario."
"He's one of the common roadblocks for trainers," Diantha chipped in. "He is the Mega Evolution Guru for a reason."
Red nodded in thought, "I've had experience battling Lucarios in the past. I'm sure I'll be able to find a solution."
Siebold raised an eyebrow at that but continued, "Oh? Do tell."
"One of my rivals from home has a Lucario," Red explained, "She has quite a powerful one. Trained it since it was a Riolu."
Diantha hummed, "She certainly sounds like a promising trainer."
"She would have loved to meet you," Red answered, "Cynthia's one of the strongest trainers I know. She won the Sinnoh League last year and almost reached the champion."
"That is impressive," Siebold had to pause from eating at those words. "Where is she right now?"
"Challenging the Sinnoh Battle Frontier."
"I've heard of that," Diantha murmured, "To challenge that is a monumental feat."
"She'll pass it with shining colors."
That was the fourth thing Diantha learned from her latest coworker. Judging from his expression, he truly believed in this Cynthia and that the two were very close. She briefly wondered if she was his girlfriend. She wouldn't be surprised. With the way he boasted about her, it certainly seemed like it.
Red cleared his throat. "Is it rude to ask for thirds?"
Siebold sighed but grabbed Red's plate. Diantha had to laugh. Despite the reluctance on the chef's face, she knew that Siebold secretly enjoyed it when people loved his food. She was sure that the boy was flattered by Red's compliments to the chef.
"This is the last one, am I clear?"
"Sure," Red grinned.
XXX
A few more weeks passed and slowly but surely, the movie was being put together. The director was exuberant throughout the entire thing, constantly praising her and Red's work. She would freely admit that this was perhaps one of the most fun she'd ever had on set. With Red's colorful cast of Pokemon and her own team entertaining and causing trouble throughout the entire process, these three months genuinely felt short.
"Alright," the director proclaimed, "We're almost done, everyone. We have several scenes left to shoot. Red, Diantha, come over here. This scene is particularly important." Red raised an eyebrow but followed Diantha along. "After enduring so many obstacles, the two protagonists watch the sunset over Coumarine City. It's a beautiful shot, the way the sun reflects over the water is cinematic!"
Diantha nodded, already knowing what was about to happen. Red's eyes narrowed as he started realizing it as well.
The director continued, "The mood is set, the atmosphere calm, the world stood still as the two of you bask in the golden light. The only thing you notice is each other..."
"Oh boy." Red wasn't as enthused as the director.
"...and after everything you've done, the maiden walks up and gives the boy hero a kiss!"
Diantha knew in her mind that this was bound to happen during her career as an actress. She was ready for it, mentally, though she would admit to being somewhat nervous. It was her first time, after all. Red though seemed to hold the proper mindset. He considered this as nothing more than a job, which it was. She applauded him for that. While the emotions they displayed needed to look real, they didn't have to be real.
When the director left to handle some other business, she turned to him. "Nervous?"
"Not nearly as much as I was expecting, honestly," Red admitted, his eyes distant before grinning. "I've had my first kiss in Kalos."
She widened her eyes at that. "Really?"
"It was a long time ago."
"Was it that Cynthia girl?" Diantha prodded.
"No," Red shook his head, confused, "Why'd you think that?"
"Well, with how much you boast about her, it was the first one that came up on my mind," Diantha teased. That explained some things though she wondered just when did he exactly visit Kalos. The boy implied visiting multiple regions.
"Nothing like that," Red laughed, "She was an old friend. We were six years old when we first met. She was lost and scared and I helped her as anyone else would. Even after years apart, she remembered me. I didn't. I was an idiot to ever forget about her." The Pikachu on his shoulder nudged his trainer with something akin to affection. He smiled gratefully at the mouse. "She was the best."
Diantha was secretly amazed at how much care and affection shone through his voice yet there was an undertone of sorrow and acceptance. She noticed his words. He spoke of her in past tense. Did she...
"You must miss her."
"I do, dearly," Red nodded, "but she would've hated herself if I didn't move on." He huffed his breath and patted Pikachu. The electric-type allowed his trainer to do so. She was touched at the display of support the mouse gave him. Their bond truly was one of a kind. He cleared his throat. "Sorry for ruining the mood."
"Don't be," Diantha shook her head, giving a reassuring smile. "I've rarely seen you display so much raw emotion before. It's nice."
He smiled ruefully, "Kalos really made me soft. It won't happen ever again, I promise."
Diantha sighed at those words. Sometimes it was okay to be soft. The boy built such a tough wall around himself that whenever she noticed small cracks in his demeanor, it was fascinating to see what lay inside. Truly, he was the oddest of all her rivals.
If she had to give up her first kiss to someone, there were worse people, she supposed.
They stayed like this, simply basking in Coumarine City's natural atmosphere.
Their small three-month journey was coming to an end and Diantha wouldn't lie when she said she would miss his company.
XXX
He had changed.
He called himself Red instead of Ash. He was Satoshi instead of Ketchum.
It had taken a while for Frogadier to get used to it. Red had grown so much. His outlook was different, tempered into something bright and limitless. What had happened to his trainer? He didn't know. He might never know. His trainer had matured, yet he knew that under all of that, he was still the same boy that caught and bonded with him so long ago.
He was still honorable. He still cared for his Pokemon. He still desired to fight and reach the top. The brilliant diamond that was Ash Ketchum had been refined, forged from the fires of experience, and shaped him into something different. His only regret was not knowing what had happened for him to become it.
When he asked Pikachu what had transpired in his absence, the mouse would go silent. They would not speak of what occurred. It pained him to see his closest friends, his kin, so quiet.
"Frogadier," Ash, no, Red spoke behind him. "You should join the others. The food will get cold."
The water-type sat within the same place in Lumiose City where he met Red long ago; their first meeting when they faced off against Team Rocket. He saw Red's potential. He admired his spirit. That courage and sense of morality spoke to him on a spiritual level.
That was when he knew this was his trainer.
He was the one in which his instincts beckoned him to be by his side. He'd never regret it. He would follow him to the ends of the world. Red, no, Ash said it best, didn't he? They were connected, linked in a way that goes beyond what was possible.
The bond they share would guarantee that they would never truly be apart. Perhaps that was how he came to be? He didn't know and maybe he never would. It had become a mystery. Maybe it was best to let secrets stay kept.
"It's hard to adjust, huh?"
Frogadier looked at his trainer who was watching the setting sun alongside the water-type. The frog gave a small nod. Pikachu and his trainer handled it far better than him. That was one thing he admired about his two greatest companions.
"I could never have imagined what that would've felt like," Red spoke. "Pikachu was my greatest support. Without him, I don't know what I'd have done."
The water-type kept silent as he listened to his trainer. He could hear the boy move closer and sit next to him. The bond between trainer and Pokemon was a curious thing filled with many mysteries. They gained a mutual understanding of one another in the past. They still shared a semblance of it in the present. His mysterious trainer could hide many things, but he could never hide his essence.
Even with a new name and new identity, Frogadier could never mistake him for anyone except Ash Ketchum.
"You should eat more," Red commented, patting the frog on the back, "Let's go, Frogadier. I'm sure that our new team would like to get to know you better."
The water-type couldn't answer his trainer. It was too much. Every time he stared at his newest allies, he couldn't help but think of his old ones. It ached his heart to be there. They were too different, in both personality and skill. They didn't experience the same hardships he had. It felt like betraying his old team if he stood with this new one.
Where was the young yet joyful Noivern? Where was his flaunting yet compassionate Hawlucha? Where was his friend, the brave and defiant Talonflame and the well-intentioned Goodra? Some might not even exist yet. It ate away at him.
"I know that look."
He jerked when Red nudged him. When he swerved his head to stare at the boy, he was surprised by the gaze. It was the same expression he had before he found his worthwhile trainer. It was one of a man that had been through much, forging a path that he hoped was the correct one. Frogadier felt shame in his heart. Here he was lamenting over the past yet his trainer endured even more. He couldn't imagine what the boy must have been through.
They should be sharing this pain, but they had to face it on their own.
It sickened him.
"They wouldn't forgive you, y'know," Red murmured. Frogadier gave him a curious look. "They'd want you to be happy."
They would, wouldn't they? Noivern would cry if it saw him like this. Hawlucha would be disappointed. Goodra and Talonflame would have tried to cheer him up. Serena, Clemont, and Bonnie would have been up to their usual shenanigans. She'd have baked him some Poke Puffs. Clemont would have invented a machine to help him. Bonnie would have tried her darn best.
He didn't want them to feel bad. That would make him a terrible friend.
And out of everything that made up Frogadier, one of the traits he shared with his trainer was his warmth and care for the people that they loved.
Frogadier slowly turned around and hopped back to join his new team. Red chuckled before standing up to follow. When the reckless Fletchinder, excitable Goomy, aloof Noibat, and fantastical Hawlucha cheered at his entrance, the frog returned it with a smile. Pikachu patted his back before jumping onto Red's shoulders. His trainer relaxed as he gazed at their antics.
This new team was different from his older one, but Ash always told him that he could never have too many friends. He supposed this was the case. He wasn't replacing them. He was making new allies, creating new memories, and starting new lasting bonds. Old and new, both could coexist. Frogadier smiled. Even now, his worthwhile trainer was still teaching him new things.
You're still the same Ash I knew deep down.
Frogadier could comfort himself with that thought.